Creating success in your business comes down to one crucial factor: providing genuine value to your clients. Join me as I chat with Sean Brooks, a seasoned creative and expert in streamlining business processes, who shares his insights on how to elevate your brand through automation and authentic content. With over 25 years of experience, Sean emphasizes the importance of understanding your clients' needs and crafting a message that resonates with them. We dive into practical strategies for enhancing productivity and building lasting connections, all while navigating the ever-changing landscape of entrepreneurship. Whether you're a solopreneur or a seasoned business owner, this conversation is packed with actionable tips to help you thrive in your creative endeavors.

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Shawn Brooks: Creating Success by Providing Value

Episode Number: 34

Publish Date: 28 October 2024

Episode Overview

The conversation with Sean Brooks delves into the core principles of building a successful creative business through value-driven strategies. Brooks, a seasoned entrepreneur, underscores the necessity of clarity in defining client goals and how that translates into compelling content. He offers practical advice for solopreneurs and small business owners looking to refine their branding and communication strategies. By prioritizing the needs of clients and simplifying their processes, entrepreneurs can foster genuine connections that lead to increased trust and loyalty. The episode also touches on the importance of nurturing client relationships through effective email marketing and content creation, illustrating how consistency and authenticity can elevate a brand in a crowded marketplace. Brooks’ journey highlights the potential for personal growth and business success when one embraces the power of storytelling and meaningful engagement.

Takeaways:

• Automation and workflow enhancements are crucial for efficiency in creative businesses.
• Providing genuine value to clients builds trust and leads to long-term success.
• Focusing on transformation rather than self-promotion is key in coaching communications.
• Metrics are essential; understanding analytics helps tailor content and improve engagement.
• Avoid chasing money; instead, pursue passion and authentic connections with clients.
• Simplifying processes allows for more creative freedom and better client interactions.

Action Items

• Connect with Shawn Brooks at his website, https://ShawnBrooks.com, to learn more about his coaching and consulting services.

Resources and Links

• https://shawnbrooks.com

More About Generator

• Website: https://generatorpodcast.com
• Leave a Review: Head over to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/generator/id1668192673 and leave us a 5 Star review if you liked the show! Help others discover this podcast.
• Follow on Social Media: Connect with us on Instagram or TikTok @generatorpodcast or on YouTube @stonetreecreative

In this episode, Maine portrait photographer Matt Stagliano talks with Natalie Tischler, a Missouri based dancer, actress, and podcaster where they discuss creativity, self-expression, and spirituality through movement and mindset. They share personal experiences with flow, repetition, and storytelling, emphasizing the importance of balance, curiosity, and creativity in achieving long-term growth and transformation. They also explore the nuances of well-being and burnout, and delve into the complexities of the mind and creativity, questioning whether there can ever be a root understanding of these concepts. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the power of movement to unlock creativity and healing, and the importance of self-awareness, stability, and inner peace in managing emotional health.

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: The Constructive Imbalance of Creativity

Episode Number: 33

Publish Date: 12 August 2024

Episode Overview

Matt Stagliano and natalie Tischler discuss creativity, self-expression, and spirituality through movement and mindset. They share personal experiences with flow, repetition, and storytelling, emphasizing the importance of balance, curiosity, and creativity in achieving long-term growth and transformation. They also explore the nuances of well-being and burnout, and delve into the complexities of the mind and creativity, questioning whether there can ever be a root understanding of these concepts. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the power of movement to unlock creativity and healing, and the importance of self-awareness, stability, and inner peace in managing emotional health.

Guest Profile

Natalie Tischler is a Missouri based dancer, actress, and podcaster. Natalie is dedicated to guiding others towards their natural state of love, joy, creativity, and well-being. With over a decade of experience as an actor, dancer, and writer, Natalie has honed a deep understanding of the creative process and its profound connection to personal fulfillment. As a certified Kundalini Yoga instructor and personal trainer, she integrates holistic practices into her work, fostering physical, mental, and spiritual harmony. Natalie is the creator of The Mystical Movement Show, a podcast that explores the intersection of creativity and well-being. Through this platform, she shares insights, experiences, and strategies to help her audience align with their true selves and flow states. In addition to her podcast, Natalie offers coaching, courses, and journals designed to support individuals on their journey to self-discovery and empowerment. Natalie's purpose is to bring joy to others, and she does so by combining her extensive training and experience with her genuine passion for helping people thrive.

Key Topics and Talking Points

• Creativity, self-expression, and healing
• Wellness vs well-being and their societal implications.
• Emotional health, stability, and power through personal growth.
• The importance of repetition and dedication in personal growth and creativity.
• Cultivating self-awareness and flow state through journaling and creative work.
• Flow state, creativity, and the importance of healing for entering it
• Burnout, self-awareness, and managing energy.
• Balance, energy, and growth, with a focus on reframing perspectives and finding balance through curiosity and creativity.
• Finding quiet and peace amidst chaos through meditation and self-reflection.
• Tarot cards and their symbolism, connecting to the self and the universe.

Resources and Links

• Instagram: @themysticalmovement
• Apple Podcasts: The Mystical Movement Show
• Spotify: The Mystical Movement Show

Calls to Action

• Website: https://generatorpodcast.com
• Subscribe to Generator: Never miss an episode – subscribe on your favorite podcast app.
• Leave a Review: Head over to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/generator/id1668192673 and leave us a 5 Star review if you liked the show! Help others discover this podcast.
• Follow on Social Media: Connect with us on Instagram or TikTok @generatorpodcast or on YouTube @stonetreecreative

In this episode, Maine portrait photographer Matt Stagliano talks with Sam Guillermo, a Maryland based photographer best known for his evocative boudoir work. Sam is also a lifelong musician, as well as videographer and artist.

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Fearlessness and Normalizing Normal with Sam Guillermo

Episode Number: 032

Publish Date: 29 July 2024

Episode Overview

Matt Stagliano and Samuel Guillermo share their personal experiences and insights on discovering and developing their creative voice, emphasizing the importance of experimentation, embracing fearlessness, and connecting with clients on a human level. They discuss the significance of vulnerability and empathy in storytelling, and how building trust with subjects can lead to more genuine and creative work. They also highlight the importance of inclusivity and representation in promoting body positivity and self-acceptance in boudoir photography. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the value of collaboration and overcoming self-doubt in photography.

Guest Profile

Sam is a passionate photographer and videographer who has two studios Creation4use and NKDHMNS (Naked Humans), with a versatile portfolio that spans events, weddings, portraits, boudoir, family sessions, engagements, elopements, and other genres of photography. After an excruciating divorce, job loss and complete vocational transition-- Sam transitioned to running their photography studio full-time. Their journey has been marked by both highs and lows, from the joy of capturing life's most precious moments to the personal challenges of unemployment and the ongoing process of finding stability. Despite these hurdles, Sam's commitment to storytelling through visual art remains unwavering, as they continue to create impactful and emotive imagery for their clients.

Key Topics and Talking Points

• Creativity, music, and career path
• Personal growth, marginalization, and photography.
• Developing creative voice through experimentation and taking risks.
• Fearlessness in creativity and connecting with clients.
• Vulnerability, empathy, and storytelling in photography and therapy.
• Photography and vulnerability with a focus on gender and comfort.
• Building trust with subjects for better photography results.
• Photography and storytelling in documentary filmmaking.
• Normalizing diversity in boudoir photography.
• Body acceptance and representation in photography.
• The power of vulnerability in boudoir photography.
• Photography, creativity, and impostor syndrome.
• Collaboration and growth in the photography industry.

Resources and Links

• nkdhmns.com
• creation4use.com
• @nkdhmns @creation4use on Instagram

Calls to Action

• Website:https://generatorpodcast.com
• Subscribe to Generator: Never miss an episode – subscribe on your favorite podcast app.
• Leave a Review: Head over to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/generator/id1668192673 and leave us a 5 Star review if you liked the show! Help others discover this podcast.
• Follow on Social Media: Connect with us on Instagram or TikTok @generatorpodcast or on YouTube @stonetreecreative

In this episode, Maine portrait photographer Matt Stagliano talks with Nino Batista, a high-end editorial photographer, educator, retoucher, and creator of Photoshop tools based in Houston, TX. Nino has translated his background in music, his lifelong love of photography and education, and a passion for creating software into a successful career helping others create Art on their terms.

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Tools, Travel, and Truth with Nino Batista

Episode Number: 31

Publish Date: 22 July 2024

Episode Overview

Nino Batista & Matt Stagliano discuss personal and professional growth, authenticity in online reputation, ethical photography practices, and the relationship between artistic vision and technological advancements in photography. They share experiences of overcoming challenges, finding balance, and emphasized the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and individualized learning. They also discuss the need for practical tools that complement AI-powered solutions in the industry.

Guest Profile

"Nino Batista has left an indelible mark on the photography industry, earning recognition for his vision and innovative techniques.

Nino's evolving legacy is not solely defined by his body of work but also by the endless list of artists he has guided and inspired. His contributions to the art community continue to be celebrated, establishing him as a trusted luminary in his field. For years, he has generously shared his extensive knowledge and expertise with aspiring artists and enthusiasts.

It’s not a surprise, after all these years, that Nino summarily dropped commercial photography to focus on what he simply has to do – what he has to make. Hardly a new journey, but now a focused one that will (and already has) cost him quite a lot, he views this all as his calling, his new will, replete with the probity and sincerity that’s been dormant far too long."

--Artist bio from ninobatista.com

Key Topics and Talking Points

• Taking a break from social media and creative pursuits to focus on personal issues and business growth.
• Personal growth, privacy, and self-awareness.
• Vulnerability, authenticity, and online reputation.
• Photography ethics and teaching workshops.
• Education, Gen Z, and the importance of real-world experiences.
• The balance between artistry and technicality in photography.
• Photography gear and creative expression.
• Developing and using photo editing tools for creative control and efficiency.
• Commercial retouching techniques and partnership between a fine artist and a client-focused retoucher.
• Traveling for workshops, targeting specific locations based on local demand.
• Cultural differences in photography teaching approaches.
• Teaching methods and accessibility with a focus on collaboration and personal connection.

Resources and Links

• https://ninobatista.com

Calls to Action

• Website: https://generatorpodcast.com
• Subscribe to Generator: Never miss an episode – subscribe on your favorite podcast app.
• Leave a Review: Head over to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/generator/id1668192673 and leave us a 5 Star review if you liked the show! Help others discover this podcast.
• Follow on Social Media: Connect with us on Instagram or TikTok @generatorpodcast or on YouTube @stonetreecreative

In this episode, Maine portrait photographer Matt Stagliano and Angelia Malbrew discuss Angelia's journey as a photographer and speaker, as well as her experience with cancer. Angelia shares how she has been busy with speaking engagements and conferences, and how she has evolved since her teenage years. They also talk about the importance of networking, her passion for empowering women and entrepreneurship. They touch on the topics of mindset, faith, and leaving a legacy. Finally, they talk about Angelia's photography work, particularly her 40 over 40 project, and how she aims to make her clients feel empowered and renewed.

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Second Chances, Self Love, and So Much Energy

Episode Number: 030

Publish Date: 10 April 2024

Episode Overview

Angelia Malbrew shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her work. She discusses the importance of empowerment and making an impact on people's lives. She focuses on empowering women who may not always get the limelight and highlights the significance of love and treating people right. Angelia also talks about her travel photography business and how she connects with people at conferences and networking events. She shares her experience in creating her own travel bag, which pays homage to her grandmother and reflects her own creativity and attention to detail. In this conversation, Angelia also discusses the importance of analytics in content creation and business success. She shares her passion for numbers and analytics, which she developed during her time working in the financial industry. Angelia emphasizes the value of looking at analytics to understand audience preferences and create engaging content. She discusses the significance of metrics such as shares, saves, and comments on social media platforms like Instagram. Additionally, Angelia highlights the importance of using tools like Google Analytics and Hotjar to gain insights into website performance and visitor behavior. She also mentions her podcast and upcoming plans for a retreat to empower and inspire others.

Key Topics and Talking Points

• Angelia has been busy with speaking engagements and conferences, networking, and building her brand as a photographer.
• Her battle with cancer has changed her perspective on life and inspired her to empower and inspire others.
• Advocating for oneself and listening to one's body are crucial in maintaining health and well-being.
• Angelia's passion for empowering women and entrepreneurship drives her work as a speaker and photographer.
• Her 40 over 40 project aims to make clients feel empowered and renewed. Empowerment and making an impact on people's lives are important aspects of Angelia's work.
• She focuses on empowering women who may not always get the limelight.
• Love and treating people right are key values for Angelia.
• She connects with people at conferences and networking events to expand her travel photography business.
• Angelia created her own travel bag, which reflects her creativity and attention to detail. Analytics play a crucial role in content creation and business success.
• Metrics like shares, saves, and comments on social media platforms provide valuable insights into audience preferences.
• Tools like Google Analytics and Hotjar help understand website performance and visitor behavior.
• Engaging with the audience and creating a safe space for them is essential for building a successful business.
• Continual learning and staying updated with industry trends are key to success.

Resources and Links

• https://angeliamalbrewphotography.com/

Calls to Action

• Website: https://generatorpodcast.com
• Subscribe to Generator: Never miss an episode – subscribe on your favorite podcast app.
• Leave a Review: Head over to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/generator/id1668192673 and leave us a 5 Star review if you liked the show! Help others discover this podcast.
• Follow on Social Media: Connect with us on Instagram or TikTok @generatorpodcast or on YouTube @stonetreecreative

In this episode, Maine portrait photographer Matt Stagliano talks with Jessica Malone, a boudoir and fine art photographer in Ohio. Jessica has created a successful portrait business in a very small town and she helps empower her clients by exploring self-discovery, healing and creativity with them. In addition to her work, Jessica has also been creating a series of photographs based on the Tarot and inviting her clients to be the subjects of each "card."

Podcast Title: Generator

Guest: Jessica Malone - Portrait, Boudoir, and Fine Art Photographer

Episode Title: You Are So Much More Than Your Identity

Episode Number: 29

Publish Date: 1 April 2024

Episode Overview

In this episode titled "You Are So Much More Than Your Identity," Matt Stagliano converses with Jessica Malone, a portrait photographer from Ohio. They delve into their similar backgrounds and the unique aspects of operating luxury businesses in small towns. Their discussion spans Jessica's innovative tarot card project, exploring themes of identity and creativity. Jessica shares insights into the significance of genuine connections in her work, the challenges and joys of marketing in a small town, and the profound impact of personal projects like her tarot series on her professional journey and client experiences.

Key Topics and Talking Points

• Small-town business challenges and collaboration.
• Photography business challenges in small towns.
• Creating a tarot deck with a unique blend of traditional and modern elements.
• Creative blocks and marketing struggles in the photography industry.
• Personality tests, creativity, and outsourcing.
• Photography growth and ego checks.
• Embracing multiple passions and overcoming self-imposed limits.
• Personal branding, creativity, and finding balance.
• Creativity, self-doubt, and alignment for working creatives.

Resources and Links

• Website: www.jessicamaloneportrait.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicamaloneportrait/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessicamaloneportrait/

Calls to Action

• Website: https://generatorpodcast.com
• Subscribe to Generator: Never miss an episode – subscribe on your favorite podcast app.
• Leave a Review: Head over to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/generator/id1668192673 and leave us a 5 Star review if you liked the show! Help others discover this podcast.
• Follow on Social Media: Connect with us on Instagram or TikTok @generatorpodcast or on YouTube @stonetreecreative

This is another installment of a sub-series of Generator called "Focal Points" where Maine photographer Matt Stagliano speaks with Jonny Edward, a commercial and portrait photographer, as well a top-tier educator based in Denver, Colorado about a variety of topics.

Podcast Title: Generator: Focal Points

Episode Title: The Recap of WPPI 2024 (Part 2)

Episode Number: 028

Publish Date: 26 March 2024

Description: In this episode, Matt & Jonny recount their vastly different experiences at WPPI 2024 in Las Vegas. This is Part 2 of a two part episode.

Keywords: creativity, WPPI, trade show, conference, photography, career, growth, community, podcasting, professional etiquette

Key Topics and Talking Points

• Solving issues in photography shooting bays
• The need for more photography podcasts
• The importance of reading shipping labels
• A last night in Vegas

Resources and Links

• For more on Jonny Edward's photography and educational courses, please visit jonnyedward.com

Calls to Action

• Website: https://generatorpodcast.com
• Subscribe to Generator: Never miss an episode – subscribe on your favorite podcast app.
• Leave a Review: Head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a 5 Star review if you liked the show! Help others discover this podcast.
• Follow on Social Media: Connect with us on Instagram or TikTok @generatorpodcast or on YouTube @stonetreecreative
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Mentioned in this episode:

Cyanide

This is another installment of a sub-series of Generator called "Focal Points" where Maine photographer Matt Stagliano speaks with Jonny Edward, a commercial and portrait photographer, as well a top-tier educator based in Denver, Colorado about a variety of topics.

Podcast Title: Generator: Focal Points

Episode Title: The Recap of WPPI 2024 (Part 1)

Episode Number: 027

Publish Date: 19 March 2024

Description: In this episode, Matt & Jonny recount their vastly different experiences at WPPI 2024 in Las Vegas. This is Part 1 of a two part episode.

Keywords: creativity, WPPI, trade show, conference, photography, career, growth, community, podcasting, professional etiquette

Key Topics and Talking Points

• The aftermath of WPPI
• Are trade shows going extinct?
• The problems with photography shooting bays
• An overview of Jonny's post-show workshop
• Attending a VIP party
• The photographer Code of Conduct

Resources and Links

• For more on Jonny Edward's photography and educational courses, please visit jonnyedward.com

Calls to Action

• Website: https://generatorpodcast.com
• Subscribe to Generator: Never miss an episode – subscribe on your favorite podcast app.
• Leave a Review: Head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a 5 Star review if you liked the show! Help others discover this podcast.
• Follow on Social Media: Connect with us on Instagram or TikTok @generatorpodcast or on YouTube @stonetreecreative

Mentioned in this episode:

Cyanide

In this episode, Maine portrait photographer Matt Stagliano talks with Kristen Lettini.

Kristen is a Business Management Consultant and the host of the Build Your Own Fairytale podcast. She helps simplify and streamline processes so small business owners can do more of what they love, rather than get stuck in their day to day tasks of their business.

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: How to Build Your Own Fairytale

Episode Number: 026

Publish Date: March 3, 2024

Episode Overview

Join us for an inspiring conversation about building a successful business on your own terms. Learn how systems and workflows transform solopreneur ventures, saving time and increasing revenue. Get tips on managing burnout, overcoming imposter syndrome, and optimizing your social media presence. Discover strategies to create work-life balance while pursuing your entrepreneurial dreams. If you're ready to design a fulfilling and successful business, this episode is for you!

Key Topics and Talking Points

• Systems streamline success: Discover how implementing systems and workflows transform businesses, leading to growth and sanity.
• Solopreneur Solutions: Get expert insights on systems specifically tailored for solopreneurs and small business owners.
• Work-Life Balance and Burnout: Learn tips for creating boundaries, avoiding burnout, and achieving a fulfilling life as an entrepreneur.
• Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Explore strategies to combat imposter syndrome and step confidently into your entrepreneurial role.
• Social Media Strategy: Optimize your social media presence with actionable tips on content planning and audience engagement.

Resources and Links

• https://kristenlettini.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/kristen.lettini/
• https://linktr.ee/kristen.lettini

Calls to Action

• Website: https://generatorpodcast.com
• Subscribe to Generator: Never miss an episode – subscribe on your favorite podcast app.
• Leave a Review: Head over to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/generator/id1668192673 and leave us a 5 Star review if you liked the show! Help others discover this podcast.
• Follow on Social Media: Connect with us on Instagram or TikTok @generatorpodcast or on YouTube @stonetreecreative

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Nora McCormack: Blazing a Trail to Your Ideal Life

Episode Number: Episode 25

Publish Date: 26 Feb 2024

Episode Overview

• In this episode, Maine portrait photographer Matt Stagliano talks with Nora McCormack, a videographer and entrepreneur based in the Portland, Maine. She is the owner of SP Films which provides wedding video packages, a partner at Maine Studio Works, and the founder of AfterParty - a nonprofit in the wedding industry.

Guest Profile

• Guest Name: Nora McCormack
• Short Bio: Nora is a high end wedding videographer based in Maine. He company, SP Films has been in business for 16 years. After a solo backpacking journey in Southeast Asia and hiking over 2000 miles on the Appalachian Trail, she decided to wind down her successful business and start a non-profit in the wedding industry that is more aligned to her values and beliefs, and her hope is to reduce the wasteful spending she sees in the industry. Nora expresses frustration with the constant advertising and marketing in their business and personal life, and wants to be an agent of change.
• Links: SP Films: https://sp-films.com

Key Topics/Talking Points

• Wedding videography and personal adventures.
• Business struggles and personal growth.
• Hiking the Appalachian Trail and societal class.
• The impact of technology on creativity and contentment during a thru-hike.
• Hiking the Appalachian Trail and its impact on business and mindset.
• Wedding waste and repurposing flowers for charity.
• Sustainable wedding practices and business growth.
• Transitioning from video production to event planning.
• Legacy, customer service, and video production in the wedding industry.

Resources and Links

• SP Films: https://sp-films.com

Calls to Action

• Website: https://generatorpodcast.com
• Subscribe to Generator: Never miss an episode – subscribe on your favorite podcast app.
• Leave a Review: Head over to the Apple Podcasts show page and leave us a 5 Star review if you liked the show! Help others discover this podcast.
• Follow on Social Media: Connect with us on Instagram or TikTok @generatorpodcast or on YouTube @stonetreecreative

wedding, florals, Appalachian trail, business, video, repurpose, videographer